New Conference Aims to Strengthen General Education

VALDOSTA -- Valdosta State University's will spotlight the
importance of general education at the first ever Core Matters
Conference Friday and Saturday, April 9-10, in the University
Center Magnolia and Rose rooms.

The two-day event will unite faculty, students and members of the
local community to facilitate the sharing of ideas regarding core
curriculum at VSU. More than 35 presenters will propose their own
inquiries into various subjects -- from coping with budget
restraints and strengthening learning communities to pedagogy and
effective instruction in super section courses.

Members of the State Core Revision Committee will discuss recent
and future revisions to state standards for core curriculum with
those teaching courses in VSU's general education program. Round
table and panel discussions will explore ways to enhance
communication between faculty members, improve instruction for core
subjects and better prepare students for entering the workforce.
Myrna Ballard, executive director of the Valdosta-Lowndes County
Chamber of Commerce will serve as the event's keynote
speaker.

A $25 registration fee ($10 for student presenters) includes a wine
reception on Friday and meals for both days. Participants may
register additional guests for $20 each. Between presentations and
discussions, those in attendance will have opportunities to win
door prizes and interact with various publishers.

Roy Pace, lecturer in VSU's Department of English, said the
steering committee has encouraged student participation in an
effort to change their perspective of general education.

"We believe core curriculum is required for all students to be
successful in their majors and work lives after graduation," Pace
said. "So many come to college wondering why they have to complete
core requirements. We want to change their point of view so they
see it as essential to creating a solid foundation from which to
draw for future success."

The steering committee has also encouraged participation from the
local business leaders, who can share ideas regarding the skills
expected from recent graduates.

"We want to strengthen the connection between the business
community and VSU, so we want to establish what is expected from
our graduates," Pace explained. "Building a better foundation for
students through core curriculum will make them more employable --
which benefits the students and employers, while also improving
VSU's reputation for producing well-rounded, prepared
graduates."

Pace, who believes that a strong general education program is
essential to university success, said during preparation for the
event he searched for similar conferences around the country but
found very little information. He and the steering committee hope
to continue the event on an annual basis, and also see it expand
beyond VSU into a national effort.